What is a Jekyll and Hyde personality disorder?

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A Jekyll and Hyde personality disorder is a dissociative identity disorder, formerly called a split personality disorder or multiple personality disorder. Disassociation is also present in most borderline personality disorder patients.

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Dissociation is a type of attribute that is present in most personality disorder patients as well as patients with other mental illnesses. It is considered a thinking disruption or disturbance as well as a change in awareness, identity, memory or consciousness. It is not the same as simply forgetting something and it is not associated with memory problems or substance abuse.

Some patients feel as though they are unable to control their emotions, actions or other bodily functions. They can be frightened by what is happening and unable to remember the dissociation after it has passed. Although it is unknown exactly how and why dissociation occurs, researchers have found that there is a connection between the dissociation process and a person's experiencing of a traumatic event.

"Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" is a story that is a cultural icon and shows a character with dissociative disorder. The character showcases the traits of dissociation with inconsistent moods and strikingly different behaviors. Dr. Henry Jekyll is a calm and socially acceptable man who then morphs into his other personality and identity, Edward Hyde. The story was originally written in book form, but has since been adapted for both the stage and film. It was written by Robert Louis Stevenson in 1886.

Related Questions

Narcissistic personality disorder is principallyÂ characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance and a strong need for admiration. People with narcissistic personality disorder typically lack empathy for others and are prone to "using" or exploiting them for personal gain.

A person's personality is important as it distinguishes him from other individuals and inspires others to follow him as a leader. Personality development helps an individual to live with a positive attitude towards life and reduces stress. A person's emotional intelligence is related to his personality, and it contributes significantly to the level of success he achieves throughout his career. A person's personality is what helps him navigate through life.

People with controlling personalities feel a compulsive need to be in charge of their environment and dictate other people's behavior. They are unable to admit mistakes, assume authority without being asked, always insist on being right, are hostile to criticism and micromanage friends, family and co-workers.

The story "Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" can be said to represent a case of dissociative identity disorder, which is sometimes colloquially referred to as "split personality." Contrary to what some people may think, this story is not a metaphor for bipolar disorder, which typically includes fewer mood swings than the disorder's name indicates.